Monocle and Case
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Joseph I. Cantarow
(Russian, 1873 - 1948)
MakerMade by
Ph. Katz
Date1900-1920
MediumMonocle (.a): Clear glass lens and yellow metal, on a black fabric cord.
Case: Faux alligator skin, green velvet, and a metal snap.
DimensionsComponent (height x width x depth of monocle): 2 1/2 x 1 3/4 x 7/16in. (6.4 x 4.4 x 1.1cm)
Component (height x diameter of case): 7/8 x 2 1/8in. (2.2 x 5.4cm)
ClassificationsCostume
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Frieda B. Cantarow
Object number2001.132.1a,b
DescriptionMonacle and fitted case. The monocle (.a) is made of clear glass in a yellow metal frame. The underside of the frame has an extra piece of wire on both the left and right side, to form supports to rest the monocle against the wearer's face. The top of the monocle has a small metal loop attached with a small screw; a black fabric cord is attached to the loop, so the monocle can hang around from the neck when not being worn.
The circular case (.b) is made of a single piece of black faux alligator skin. The top and bottom were cut almost in two, leaving only a narrow piece at the back of the case that serves as the hinge for opening. A second piece of faux alligator skin is stitched to the underside of the bottom of the case; it extends up over the opening, and attaches with a snap to the accompanying snap affixed to the front of the top of the case. Printed in gold lettering on the top of the case is, "Ph. Katz, Optik/ Karlsbad/ Sanssoucl". The interior of the case is lined with dark green velvet.
NotesOwner Note: The Hartford City Directory of 1904 lists a Joseph I. Cantarow as a druggist at 110 1/2 Trumbull Street, and living at 127 Trumbull Street.The circular case (.b) is made of a single piece of black faux alligator skin. The top and bottom were cut almost in two, leaving only a narrow piece at the back of the case that serves as the hinge for opening. A second piece of faux alligator skin is stitched to the underside of the bottom of the case; it extends up over the opening, and attaches with a snap to the accompanying snap affixed to the front of the top of the case. Printed in gold lettering on the top of the case is, "Ph. Katz, Optik/ Karlsbad/ Sanssoucl". The interior of the case is lined with dark green velvet.
Status
Not on view
